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Dr. Cathy Moreland Mystery #2
Murder & Malpractice
Dr. Cathy Moreland has recently returned to work after battling mental health challenges, but her surgery in the British countryside is simmering, as usual, with tensions. One doctor struggles to keep up with the changes in the medical field; another, ambitious and aggressive, is romantically entangled with a nurse. The newest arrival, a pharmacist, seems very competent—but his behaviour is mysterious.
When one of the doctors dies after drinking a cup of coffee, the practice is thrown into a state of suspicion and chaos. Circumstances seem to point toward one partner—but Cathy intends to examine the evidence more closely . . .
When one of the doctors dies after drinking a cup of coffee, the practice is thrown into a state of suspicion and chaos. Circumstances seem to point toward one partner—but Cathy intends to examine the evidence more closely . . .
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2022
100 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Mairi Chong
12 books39 followersMairi grew up in the north-east of Scotland. The dramatic coastal village proved to be the perfect back-drop for imaginative play alongside her brothers.
"The neighbours must have hated us. We were always up on someone's shed roof tracking down smugglers, or digging in a ditch, hoping to unearth hidden treasure!"
Mairi read voraciously from a young age. Both her father and grandfather were great storytellers and read aloud to her, encouraging her to invent stories of her own. Their support led her to gaining a scholarship to study creative writing at a prestigious summer school.
In reading, she gravitated towards crime fiction, beginning with Agatha Christie, and moving on to Dorothy L. Sayers and Josephine Tey.
"I must have been a bit of a pig at school. I remember at the age of ten asking if the library had Bleak House! In my defence, I still think it was a good call. Dickens was one of the great pioneers in detective fiction."
Creativity took a backseat when Mairi chose to study Medicine at Dundee University. She qualified as a general practitioner, enjoying the variety of the work.
"I suppose I fell in love with every medical specialty as I moved through university. I especially enjoyed A&E and psychiatry. When I think about it, it’s probably because both involved listening to people’s stories."
Within General Practice, Mairi specialized in addictions psychiatry, women’s health and family planning, but following the devastating personal diagnosis of bipolar disorder, swiftly followed by renal cancer, she was forced to take a career break.
"It was a wake-up call really. I was ambitious and the illnesses forced me to prioritise. In many ways, it was the best thing that could have happened to our family. I realised that I needed to be at home with my beloved son. I felt that I had missed out on too much. As I slowly recovered, I read with him the stories I had myself once loved. I found it brought back my own appetite for books. I think, what with the mental illness and work, I had lost that part of myself entirely. The writing came not long after. It seemed like a very natural progression. Like rediscovering a long forgotten and much- loved friend."
Happily, Mairi has been declared free from cancer and now lives a peaceful existence deep in the Scottish countryside with her husband, son, cats and horses. She has even been known to deliver the odd calf for the neighbouring farmer if he’s in a fix.
"Stories are everywhere around me; I don’t need to go hunting for them. Sometimes the smallest comment or thought can spark an idea for a book. I know it seems impossible, surrounded by such beauty, but believe it or not, it’s the ideal place to plot a murder."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
May 2, 2021
Murder and Malpractice is the first book in a medical mystery series about Scottish GP Cathy Moreland, although there is a prequel novel, which explains more about her background and prior illness, and a newly available novella available for free only to the author’s newsletter subscribers, which is set in Cathy’s first year at medical school. I got this one for free from a promotion last year but read these others first, as I do prefer to read series in chronological rather than published order, where possible. This is an impressive first novel written by a former GP, with a central character who’s a bit of a modern medical Miss Marple.
Dr Moreland, the youngest of three partners in a busy practice in a small town in the Scottish Borders, has recently returned to work after a serious mental illness. All she wants to do is get on with seeing sick people, and she resents both the interference of her colleagues who want her to take it easy, and the involvement of a new doctor who has been looking after her patients. Then an ambitious young pharmacist with problems of his own then joins the team, and soon after one of the doctors is found dead in their consulting room - who is the poisoner on the team?
I was interested in this series because it relatively unusual to have a female GP as a heroine, and especially since it’s set in Scotland, where I trained. The descriptions of the stresses and frustrations, as well as the small victories, of working in a practice were true to my experience - including the horrors of never-ending home visits, particular to the UK NHS! Cathy is a realistically flawed and complex heroine - driven but caring, arrogant but insecure, fighting for her patients but looking down on her younger non-medical colleagues that she patronisingly refers to as silly girls. The mystery was well done, leading us up one path only to double back with a surprise reveal that I didn’t predict. There was one surprising but glaring mistake - Scotland doesn’t have coroners, and you certainly wouldn’t have an inquest that quickly, but it helped the plot along and most readers wouldn’t notice I don’t suppose. The other characters are well fleshed out, from snooty obsessive-compulsive Mark to anxious regretful Fraser, who has unknowingly faced one of the same problems as Cathy. I particularly like her stroppy bullish but well meaning ED doctor friend Suzalinna.
4.5 rounded up for excellent writing and clever plotting, I will be buying the next two in the series just as soon as I tame my TBR!
Dr Moreland, the youngest of three partners in a busy practice in a small town in the Scottish Borders, has recently returned to work after a serious mental illness. All she wants to do is get on with seeing sick people, and she resents both the interference of her colleagues who want her to take it easy, and the involvement of a new doctor who has been looking after her patients. Then an ambitious young pharmacist with problems of his own then joins the team, and soon after one of the doctors is found dead in their consulting room - who is the poisoner on the team?
I was interested in this series because it relatively unusual to have a female GP as a heroine, and especially since it’s set in Scotland, where I trained. The descriptions of the stresses and frustrations, as well as the small victories, of working in a practice were true to my experience - including the horrors of never-ending home visits, particular to the UK NHS! Cathy is a realistically flawed and complex heroine - driven but caring, arrogant but insecure, fighting for her patients but looking down on her younger non-medical colleagues that she patronisingly refers to as silly girls. The mystery was well done, leading us up one path only to double back with a surprise reveal that I didn’t predict. There was one surprising but glaring mistake - Scotland doesn’t have coroners, and you certainly wouldn’t have an inquest that quickly, but it helped the plot along and most readers wouldn’t notice I don’t suppose. The other characters are well fleshed out, from snooty obsessive-compulsive Mark to anxious regretful Fraser, who has unknowingly faced one of the same problems as Cathy. I particularly like her stroppy bullish but well meaning ED doctor friend Suzalinna.
4.5 rounded up for excellent writing and clever plotting, I will be buying the next two in the series just as soon as I tame my TBR!
April 20, 2021
Well where do I start with this.
I loved it.
It's so detailed, whilst reading I felt like I was really there (and I could possibly run a GPs myself now 😉)
I loved how the characters were so real, noone was perfect and boring. The MC is very interesting, coming back to work as a GP after being diagnosed with Bipolar disorder and doing some questionable things . I know the author also is Bipolar but I don't know how much was based on her actual experience , knowledge from my medical training etc but it was very interesting. Bipolar disorder is something I've seen on TV shows but never been in the head of a character in a book.
The Mystery was very interesting, a few twists and lots of suspects. I'd have loved more clues dotted along the way for the reader to be able to notice/ponder over (it may be that there was and I missed them) but great start to a detective series and glad I have the second on my shelves ready to be read!
I loved it.
It's so detailed, whilst reading I felt like I was really there (and I could possibly run a GPs myself now 😉)
I loved how the characters were so real, noone was perfect and boring. The MC is very interesting, coming back to work as a GP after being diagnosed with Bipolar disorder and doing some questionable things . I know the author also is Bipolar but I don't know how much was based on her actual experience , knowledge from my medical training etc but it was very interesting. Bipolar disorder is something I've seen on TV shows but never been in the head of a character in a book.
The Mystery was very interesting, a few twists and lots of suspects. I'd have loved more clues dotted along the way for the reader to be able to notice/ponder over (it may be that there was and I missed them) but great start to a detective series and glad I have the second on my shelves ready to be read!
June 16, 2020
A real page turner, kept you on your toes til the end. Really enjoyed reading this 😀
July 23, 2020
I usually get turned off by the over use of "twists and turns" in a book review. Too many reviewers seem to think that a less developed plot constitutes its use. This book, I tell you, is worthy! You think you know; but you don't! You will not know who the victim will be until you've made it half way through the story. The first chapter takes you through the victims last moments. Then, in chapter two we meet Dr Cathy Moreland who will take us through the story and investigation. This is not your typical forensic doctor or cozy mystery. This story and characters have depth and emotion. I picked this book up as a freebie and received the authors newsletter which intrigued me even more. I highly recommend this book and could have easily finished in a day IF I din't have dogs (and garden) !
July 29, 2020
A GP returns to her practice after time off managing her mental health, only to find herself embroiled in murderous shenanigans and a race to find out who was really responsible. A murder mystery in a quaint setting with enigmatic characters...
The good: The pacing of this book is terrific, I struggled to put it down and unlike some other books in this genre, the story moves relentlessly forwards rather than dwelling on erroneous details or misdirection. The main character, Cathy, is flawed and all the more likeable for it. Although smart and intuitive, she is not the cool, calm and collected main character typically seen, but rather a lady on a journey, and capable of messing up like the rest of us.
The bad: The author gives little away in terms of character or setting description. As a matter of personal preference, I like a lot of detail and definition to help anchor the people and places into my mind. Those of you with any form of imagination will probably struggle less than I with this. There is also a character within the story who comes across as antagonistic and unpleasant, but no real explanation as to why he behaves in this way. As one of the stronger of the cast members, I would have liked to learn more about his motivations.
Summary: Read the book! This is a cracking debut novel and I am excited to see where the leading lady goes next. The author has a lovely style of writing, appealing on many levels, and I look forward to watching her writing career take off!
The good: The pacing of this book is terrific, I struggled to put it down and unlike some other books in this genre, the story moves relentlessly forwards rather than dwelling on erroneous details or misdirection. The main character, Cathy, is flawed and all the more likeable for it. Although smart and intuitive, she is not the cool, calm and collected main character typically seen, but rather a lady on a journey, and capable of messing up like the rest of us.
The bad: The author gives little away in terms of character or setting description. As a matter of personal preference, I like a lot of detail and definition to help anchor the people and places into my mind. Those of you with any form of imagination will probably struggle less than I with this. There is also a character within the story who comes across as antagonistic and unpleasant, but no real explanation as to why he behaves in this way. As one of the stronger of the cast members, I would have liked to learn more about his motivations.
Summary: Read the book! This is a cracking debut novel and I am excited to see where the leading lady goes next. The author has a lovely style of writing, appealing on many levels, and I look forward to watching her writing career take off!
March 2, 2022
Starts off in a hospital. Moves to a local pharmacy and finishes in a doctors practice.
Unputdownable.
Unputdownable.
February 11, 2022
This book made me want to read the prequel and keen to read the next book of the Dr Cathy Moreland Mysteries. As a former GP receptionist this book took me back to my experiences within the practice, although I was a little disappointed by the portrayal of the receptionists in the book as 'silly girls', keen to gossip (my own practice experiences being more intensive, interesting and dare I say 'character building' as the first point of contact/buffer for distressed or at times irate patients - I really hope a future book might give more character to the non-clinical team members), I put that down to the character's view and not the authors. Especially as the majority of characters were given such depth and Cathy probably wouldn't have much to know/say about the receptionists having just returned from a leave of absence - as the author points out, there's a reason why that job changes hands so regularly.
Anyway...
The main characters were distinctly drawn out and complex. I really admired the central character, and her struggles with bipolar disorder and the perception cast on her by her colleagues in light of her recent breakdown made for an interesting read. As a reader I found myself wondering if her perspective could be taken seriously, or if she was at risk of breaking down before being able to unveil the killer. I think it takes skill to write a character in such a way that you find yourself being able to look outside of their given narrative and question their motivations, and that is a skill Mairi Chong clearly has perfected. Reading the author's bio, it's clear how the threads of Mairi's own life have been woven into this story, and I believe that is what gives it such depth and heart. I appreciated the slight reference to the previous book, as it made me want to read more but it can be off putting when you know how the previous one ended. The author doesn't do this, so as a reader you're free to discover more of the character's backstory without everything being dumped out on the page in one long exposition. This makes the character's relationships and world feel more authentic. I don't think it's only because of my experiences that I could picture the setting so clearly, the author sets the scene so well and I have no words for how it was done. The twists and turns fit seamlessly into the plot, and I don't want to write any further about it because you'll be hooked from the first chapter when you read the victim's final moments and find yourself gasping for breath.
Anyway...
The main characters were distinctly drawn out and complex. I really admired the central character, and her struggles with bipolar disorder and the perception cast on her by her colleagues in light of her recent breakdown made for an interesting read. As a reader I found myself wondering if her perspective could be taken seriously, or if she was at risk of breaking down before being able to unveil the killer. I think it takes skill to write a character in such a way that you find yourself being able to look outside of their given narrative and question their motivations, and that is a skill Mairi Chong clearly has perfected. Reading the author's bio, it's clear how the threads of Mairi's own life have been woven into this story, and I believe that is what gives it such depth and heart. I appreciated the slight reference to the previous book, as it made me want to read more but it can be off putting when you know how the previous one ended. The author doesn't do this, so as a reader you're free to discover more of the character's backstory without everything being dumped out on the page in one long exposition. This makes the character's relationships and world feel more authentic. I don't think it's only because of my experiences that I could picture the setting so clearly, the author sets the scene so well and I have no words for how it was done. The twists and turns fit seamlessly into the plot, and I don't want to write any further about it because you'll be hooked from the first chapter when you read the victim's final moments and find yourself gasping for breath.
April 28, 2020
Great start to a murder mystery series
Fabulous start to a murder mystery series - well plotted story and great characters, particularly the main two viewpoints.
I really enjoyed the medical setting; it makes this stand out in the mystery genre and was genuinely interesting to read about. A lot of expertise obviously went into this to make it feel authentic.
I can’t wait to read more of the Dr Cathy Moreland series. And this was a debut too? Wow we are in for a treat as this series develops.
Fabulous start to a murder mystery series - well plotted story and great characters, particularly the main two viewpoints.
I really enjoyed the medical setting; it makes this stand out in the mystery genre and was genuinely interesting to read about. A lot of expertise obviously went into this to make it feel authentic.
I can’t wait to read more of the Dr Cathy Moreland series. And this was a debut too? Wow we are in for a treat as this series develops.
January 29, 2022
With thanks to Bloodhound for the ARC.
After reading and reviewing the prequel to this series I was keen to try the first of the books as well.
I found it interesting to see Dr Moreland rediscovering her professional confidence and certainly gained a greater understanding of the way a GP surgery is run.
The overall murder plot however I found that even on a second reading I simply couldn't see enough clues pointing to the actual culprit until the final reveal, and how unlikely would it be for two potential killers to use the same fairly unusu method at the same time?
Sadly this as a result missed the mark for me, it was well written and I wouldn't rule out reading more from Mairi but I feel like this one possibly needed more editing to make sure the clues pointed in more than one direction.
After reading and reviewing the prequel to this series I was keen to try the first of the books as well.
I found it interesting to see Dr Moreland rediscovering her professional confidence and certainly gained a greater understanding of the way a GP surgery is run.
The overall murder plot however I found that even on a second reading I simply couldn't see enough clues pointing to the actual culprit until the final reveal, and how unlikely would it be for two potential killers to use the same fairly unusu method at the same time?
Sadly this as a result missed the mark for me, it was well written and I wouldn't rule out reading more from Mairi but I feel like this one possibly needed more editing to make sure the clues pointed in more than one direction.
May 29, 2023
Overall this novel, Murder and Malpractice conveyed an curious and original mystery. The main character is a flawed and nearly failed general practitioner. The small three doctor practice with nurses and a part time M.D. made a unusual setting with great tension between the three medical partners and becomes a hell of murder and confusion.
Then characters tend to be clearly drawn with several opposing view points and personality traits.
Weakness are as follows. Lack of fair play with the reader because of very few clues as to the identity of the true culprit. I also found the first half lacking in excitement and momentum. Thus my three star rating.
Then characters tend to be clearly drawn with several opposing view points and personality traits.
Weakness are as follows. Lack of fair play with the reader because of very few clues as to the identity of the true culprit. I also found the first half lacking in excitement and momentum. Thus my three star rating.
January 14, 2022
Having recently read the prequel to Mairi Chong's Dr Cathy Moreland mysteries, I was keen to try one of the main series. In this book, Cathy finds herself caught up in a murder at her surgery - can she figure out whodunnit and save innocent people from punishment?
I found this a bit slow going to start with, but the last third was great - lots of twists and turns, and although I saw one of them early on, I hadn't figured out the final reveal. I wasn't sure if I actually liked the character of Cathy, but the ending definitely raised her in my estimations!
I found this a bit slow going to start with, but the last third was great - lots of twists and turns, and although I saw one of them early on, I hadn't figured out the final reveal. I wasn't sure if I actually liked the character of Cathy, but the ending definitely raised her in my estimations!
March 17, 2020
Great read, worth buying :)
It has been a while since I have read a murder mystery.
Having read the blurb etc, I had high hopes for Murder and Malpractice.
These hopes were well placed. The author uses her medical background to great effect, giving the fictional doctor’s surgery an authentic polish.
The story is well paced, with a very satisfying ending.
I certainly didn’t work out who the culprit is!
It is well worth investing in this book.
It has been a while since I have read a murder mystery.
Having read the blurb etc, I had high hopes for Murder and Malpractice.
These hopes were well placed. The author uses her medical background to great effect, giving the fictional doctor’s surgery an authentic polish.
The story is well paced, with a very satisfying ending.
I certainly didn’t work out who the culprit is!
It is well worth investing in this book.
April 9, 2020
This book is superb!! It just compels you to read on because you so want to know who the murderer is!! Of course it is so skillfully written that you are left wondering till right at the end!!
I also loved the character descriptions and how they develop through the story.
I just can't wait for the next book!!
I also loved the character descriptions and how they develop through the story.
I just can't wait for the next book!!
November 23, 2020
I couldn’t get past the first 10% of this book. It was just depressing. Sorry.
February 28, 2022
Dr Cathy Moreland, still a little fragile after her breakdown and subsequent rather eventful recouperation, is back working at her practice alongside partners Dr James Longmuir, nearing retirement and a calm and sensitive character, and Dr Mark Hope, quite frankly a rude and aggressive person at times. After her comeback with a bipolar diagnosis into the rather fraught atmosphere, coupled with high workloads and tight budgets, it is a very tense place for all the staff there. A decision is made to enlist a pharmacist to lighten the load for all of them and the successful candidate is one Fraser Edwards. He is a bit of a paranoid person, having first got embroiled in a scheme to supply junior doctors with hospital drugs in his old position, then when he took a shop posting, a bad call over a methadone prescription led to a death by overdose. He had been hoping he could put all that behind him until a short time into his new job when his former nemesis pops up as a trainee at the surgery. Then soon afterwards one of their number dies in suspicious circumstances. Once again Cathy turns amateur sleuth. As her questions and investigation throw up different suspects in her quest to reveal the truth, danger lurks and there are shocking consequences for the entire practice.
Like the first book, this story has a slower start as a whole bunch of new characters have to be introduced at the practice but soon hots up into a great murder mystery with interesting characters and lots of twists and surprises along the way for this original and likeable detective. I especially liked the rather brutal thoughts Cathy’s subconscious threw up about Linda at the start! It was an excellent follow up to the first story and I look forward to reading more soon. 4.5*
Like the first book, this story has a slower start as a whole bunch of new characters have to be introduced at the practice but soon hots up into a great murder mystery with interesting characters and lots of twists and surprises along the way for this original and likeable detective. I especially liked the rather brutal thoughts Cathy’s subconscious threw up about Linda at the start! It was an excellent follow up to the first story and I look forward to reading more soon. 4.5*
January 31, 2022
Murder and Malpractice is book two in the Dr Cathy Moreland Mystery Series, with the prequel being book 1. Another great story with an unusual ‘detective’ in the guise of GP Cathy. Cathy is a great character, recently diagnosed bipolar she has just returned to work, I can’t honestly say I really like Cathy as she isn’t easy to like but she is certainly tenacious. Another interesting character in this book is the pharmacist; a man with his own issues and I actually felt quite repulsed by some of his actions. To be honest I can’t think of one character in this I found likeable; they do seem to have a lot of unpleasant traits between them
Briefly, Cathy has returned to work after her diagnosis and is hoping for a gentle induction but shortly after her return one of the partners dies in suspicious circumstances. When another partner is implicated in the murder Cathy is determined to prove his innocence.
It did take me longer to get into this book than the prequel and I thought it was a bit strange and unlikely that two people would chose such a similar mode of killing, but that said it was another very enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the next one. The last third of the book really ramps up the pace with plenty of twists I wasn’t expecting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Briefly, Cathy has returned to work after her diagnosis and is hoping for a gentle induction but shortly after her return one of the partners dies in suspicious circumstances. When another partner is implicated in the murder Cathy is determined to prove his innocence.
It did take me longer to get into this book than the prequel and I thought it was a bit strange and unlikely that two people would chose such a similar mode of killing, but that said it was another very enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the next one. The last third of the book really ramps up the pace with plenty of twists I wasn’t expecting. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
November 9, 2020
When Dr Cathy Moreland returns to her general practice following a nervous breakdown and a bipolar disorder diagnosis, things do not turn out the way she had hoped. She senses a lack of trust and feels like a vulnerable and invaluable part of the team. One morning, one of the doctors is discovered poisoned and dying in his consulting room. Cathy starts battling her own personal demons to uncover the killer’s true identity before they strike again.
This authentic medical drama with interesting characters and an intricate plot is a great start to the Dr Cathy Moreland Mystery series. The author, Mairi Chong, studied Medicine at Dundee University and qualified as a general practitioner, specialized in addictions psychiatry, women’s health and family planning. Following the devastating personal diagnosis of bipolar disorder, swiftly followed by renal cancer, she was forced to take a career break.
Mairi Chong aims to write with authenticity by bringing her own personal experience to the page, which really enriches and deepens the story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This authentic medical drama with interesting characters and an intricate plot is a great start to the Dr Cathy Moreland Mystery series. The author, Mairi Chong, studied Medicine at Dundee University and qualified as a general practitioner, specialized in addictions psychiatry, women’s health and family planning. Following the devastating personal diagnosis of bipolar disorder, swiftly followed by renal cancer, she was forced to take a career break.
Mairi Chong aims to write with authenticity by bringing her own personal experience to the page, which really enriches and deepens the story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2022
Not the first in the series and the previous novel is really an introduction to the character, and a very interesting character she is. An unusual setting for me, a GP practice, and characters drawn from the health service. Lots of insight into the stresses and strains surrounding those working in the health service and in a GP practice in particular, which meant that you had some sympathy for Dr Moreland and her own illness. How she copes with this illness and manages to function in a stressful job, was an interesting issue.
The 'murder and malpractice' was rather well conceived with some twists and quite a few suspects, many of whom were flawed in their own right. There were quite a few red herrings along the way and I have to say I changed my mind on quite a few occasions as to whodunit!
I haven't read the first book but probably will go back to get a better understanding of what happened to Dr Moreland before the action in this book, and I will be looking out for more in the series.
An easy read but enjoyable and entertaining.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for providing an ARC for this entertaining read.
The 'murder and malpractice' was rather well conceived with some twists and quite a few suspects, many of whom were flawed in their own right. There were quite a few red herrings along the way and I have to say I changed my mind on quite a few occasions as to whodunit!
I haven't read the first book but probably will go back to get a better understanding of what happened to Dr Moreland before the action in this book, and I will be looking out for more in the series.
An easy read but enjoyable and entertaining.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for providing an ARC for this entertaining read.
January 15, 2022
I enjoyed the first book but this one was on another level. Cathy has returned to her GP practice and is trying to settle back while dealing with her colleagues understandable suspicions of her.
One of the partners in the practice dies horribly and it's pretty clear it's a murder case. Immediately a colleague is the prime suspect but this changes when another employee is also murdered.
I liked the fact that there were so many different characters in the story, and each one with a totally different personality. There are lots of secrets also and several twists that keep you guessing. The story was really interesting and the backdrop of the GP practice was excellent. There was enough information but not too much to lose your interest. I was hooked right from the start and I had the constant thought in my head of having to read another chapter , then another one and so on.
My thankd to Bloodhound books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
One of the partners in the practice dies horribly and it's pretty clear it's a murder case. Immediately a colleague is the prime suspect but this changes when another employee is also murdered.
I liked the fact that there were so many different characters in the story, and each one with a totally different personality. There are lots of secrets also and several twists that keep you guessing. The story was really interesting and the backdrop of the GP practice was excellent. There was enough information but not too much to lose your interest. I was hooked right from the start and I had the constant thought in my head of having to read another chapter , then another one and so on.
My thankd to Bloodhound books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2022
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book, and really enjoyed it. I guess I'd categorise it as a cosy mystery rather than a thriller. Dr Cathy Moreland has recently returned to work in the GP practice where she is Junior Partner after a three month absence after a "breakdown". We learn that she has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I liked the portrayal of Cathy's character finding it representative of someone with bipolar, especially a new diagnosis. Although she accepts it, she is fighting hard not to let the diagnosis define her, and is pushing herself that bit too much. She has a very supportive friend, A&E doctor Suzalinna who is very concerned for her welfare. When there is a suspicious death at the GP practice, Cathy takes it on herself to investigate. It's quite far into the book before we learn who the victim is, and there are a good number of plausible twists and turns. A great new character and an author I'll be looking out for. #murderandmalpractice
January 25, 2022
I enjoyed the prequel to the Dr Cathy Moreland Mysteries, Death By Appointment so I looked forward to reading and ARC from Bloodhound Books in return for an honest review. I was not disappointed as Murder and Malpractice takes place in the doctor's surgery on Cathy's return to work after taking time out.
It was interesting to get to know Cathy's fellow partners and other members of the medical team and as the story slowly unfolded introducing the new practice pharmacist and his secret past the scene was set for murder!
Cathy is clearly struggling with her relationships with her work colleagues but as she starts to delve into possible reasons and suspects of the murder it helps her to take control of her life. I suspected a number of people guilty of the murder but there were several "red herrings" and Cathy unmasked the killer in a scene reminiscent of a good Agatha Christie novel.
It was interesting to get to know Cathy's fellow partners and other members of the medical team and as the story slowly unfolded introducing the new practice pharmacist and his secret past the scene was set for murder!
Cathy is clearly struggling with her relationships with her work colleagues but as she starts to delve into possible reasons and suspects of the murder it helps her to take control of her life. I suspected a number of people guilty of the murder but there were several "red herrings" and Cathy unmasked the killer in a scene reminiscent of a good Agatha Christie novel.
May 13, 2022
Having found difficulty with the first in series I found I needed to read the second book. I was not disappointed. The author is now well into her stride and using her previous experience as a doctor to lead the reader through any technical explanations needed and conversations between medical colleagues and surgery personnel.
Dr. Cathy Moreland has returned to work after being diagnosed with Bi Polar disorder and is trying to fit back in and get the practice running smoothly again. However, she feels the pressure, the condescending looks and doubt when things begin to go pear shaped and intrigue nastiness begin to appear.
Lots of twists and turns I just didn’t expect. The author leads you by the nose in one direction and just when you think you have everything worked out you are taken down another path. Amazingly written and a satisfying read.
Dr. Cathy Moreland has returned to work after being diagnosed with Bi Polar disorder and is trying to fit back in and get the practice running smoothly again. However, she feels the pressure, the condescending looks and doubt when things begin to go pear shaped and intrigue nastiness begin to appear.
Lots of twists and turns I just didn’t expect. The author leads you by the nose in one direction and just when you think you have everything worked out you are taken down another path. Amazingly written and a satisfying read.
November 14, 2020
I really enjoy mystery stories and this Who done it, keeps you on your toes all the way through trying to figure out who done it!! It has its own set of twists that are unique to the story. It keeps you going to see if you can figure it out before the answers are exposed. I love how Dr Moreland works it all out, especially since she had a nervous breakdown and things are a little extra challenging for her and of course everyone is watching her wondering if she is going to have another one. A very good well written story, that does not give up the mystery of the true bad person until the very end!! Great characters and I am looking forward to reading more stories involving this great and talented Dr!
April 18, 2021
I read Mairi Chong’s debut novel about Dr. Cathy Moreland after I read Deadly Diagnosis. Both books are very much to my liking. It is interesting to have a main character who is a doctor, rather than a police detective or a retired person. (I enjoy many books with such persons, but the change is refreshing.). Cathy is clever and knows how to stand up for herself. Sometimes I wonder if she isn’t overly defensive because of her health issues. That doesn’t seem to matter as it seems in keeping with her character.
My only complaint with the book is that Cathy uses a swear word that seems to me to be offensive to any sincere Christian readers. I know this may not upset most people, but it does bother me.
My only complaint with the book is that Cathy uses a swear word that seems to me to be offensive to any sincere Christian readers. I know this may not upset most people, but it does bother me.
May 12, 2021
This is the first of Mairi's books I have read. It most definitely won't be the last.
Both living with Bipolar myself and an avid reader of medical, murder books, I was drawn in straightaway. Having spent many years in primary and secondary care, I hold GP's, Psychiatrists, Nurses etc, in such high regard and in doing so had, almost forgotten, they are human too.
Some books based on personal experience, to me, are often put together in a disjointed way. This book is the exception. The story flows from page to page, in a way, you become a part of team. So engrossed in the depths of all the characters, leads you to enjoy every personality under the one roof. Great twist and ending.
Huge respect Mairi. 🙂
Both living with Bipolar myself and an avid reader of medical, murder books, I was drawn in straightaway. Having spent many years in primary and secondary care, I hold GP's, Psychiatrists, Nurses etc, in such high regard and in doing so had, almost forgotten, they are human too.
Some books based on personal experience, to me, are often put together in a disjointed way. This book is the exception. The story flows from page to page, in a way, you become a part of team. So engrossed in the depths of all the characters, leads you to enjoy every personality under the one roof. Great twist and ending.
Huge respect Mairi. 🙂
May 16, 2021
A murder, right in the Dr’s office!
The medical thrillers that Ms. Chong writes are well-written and researched, and I love that all of the characters are so down-to-earth, flaws and all! I’ve read a few of them but seem to have missed this one. One of the practice docs is found dead in his office, seemingly poisoned. The police are leaning toward suicide, but Dr Cathy believes it was murder. As she starts to investigate on her own, it seems like many of the office staff have motives, as Dr James was often abrupt and cold and generally disliked. But who hated him enough to kill him. The ending is a surprise! I do recommend this series! I am on the ARC team and write this review voluntarily.
The medical thrillers that Ms. Chong writes are well-written and researched, and I love that all of the characters are so down-to-earth, flaws and all! I’ve read a few of them but seem to have missed this one. One of the practice docs is found dead in his office, seemingly poisoned. The police are leaning toward suicide, but Dr Cathy believes it was murder. As she starts to investigate on her own, it seems like many of the office staff have motives, as Dr James was often abrupt and cold and generally disliked. But who hated him enough to kill him. The ending is a surprise! I do recommend this series! I am on the ARC team and write this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2022
Dr Cathy Moreland is returning to work as a GP after a period of absence due to mental health issues. Fraser Edwards is working as a pharmacist in a small pharmacy but has a history. When Cathy’s practice decide to recruit a pharmacist Fraser gets the job - little did he know that his past would come back to haunt him. Fraser decides to take decisive action to rid him of his past torment but it all appears to go horribly wrong and another partner at the surgery dies. Cathy takes it into her own hands to investigate when her mentor is accused of murder. This is a really cleverly written story which is engaging and easy to read -I couldn’t put it down.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a review but my views are my own.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a review but my views are my own.
January 31, 2022
A murder mystery that keeps you guessing
There's a tense atmosphere at the doctors surgery where Dr Cathy Moreland has recently returned to work after struggling with her mental health issues. She suggests they employ a pharmacist to reduce the partners' workload, and Fraser joins the practise.
Fraser is hoping for a new start after making mistakes in previous pharmacy jobs but, when someone from his past reappears, his thoughts turn to murder. He's a pharmacist, how hard can it be to kill someone? - but does he have the nerve to do it?
Cathy is once again drawn into investigating a sudden death and it looks like one of her colleagues is a murderer - but which one is it?
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
There's a tense atmosphere at the doctors surgery where Dr Cathy Moreland has recently returned to work after struggling with her mental health issues. She suggests they employ a pharmacist to reduce the partners' workload, and Fraser joins the practise.
Fraser is hoping for a new start after making mistakes in previous pharmacy jobs but, when someone from his past reappears, his thoughts turn to murder. He's a pharmacist, how hard can it be to kill someone? - but does he have the nerve to do it?
Cathy is once again drawn into investigating a sudden death and it looks like one of her colleagues is a murderer - but which one is it?
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
January 13, 2022
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. As well as wanting to get to the end to see if I was correct about who had done it, I was not, I found the interactions between the characters compelling. Extra depth was added through the addressing of current moves in medicine notably introduction of pharmacists to general practice.
For me the only downside was the dialogue between characters, it seemed stilted and unnatural. For the main I was lost deep in the narrative but during the conversations I found myself conscious that I was reading. This could be a regional thing, perhaps there is less banter in real life than I am used to!
For me the only downside was the dialogue between characters, it seemed stilted and unnatural. For the main I was lost deep in the narrative but during the conversations I found myself conscious that I was reading. This could be a regional thing, perhaps there is less banter in real life than I am used to!
February 7, 2022
A first for me with this author and I have to say an enjoyable read. What I would say is a cosy crime, no blood guts and gore but sometimes a good murder mystery is what’s needed. This was well written and the story flowed, a little slow in the beginning but gathered momentum and was full of twists and turns, I thought I had it figured out as I’m usually good at working out who the murderer is but alas this time I found myself to be so very wrong. I didn’t see the end coming and it took me completely by surprise which I have to say I like.
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